The ACCT Philadelphia shelter is not a “no kill” shelter, meaning sometimes animals are euthanized because of capacity issues. ACCT reported it achieved an 87% live release rate, meaning that 87% of all dogs and cats were reunited with their owner, adopted or transferred to rescue partners.
The legislation, sponsored by Councilmember Cindy Bass, specifically calls for a moratorium on “Breeding, causing, or allowing a dog to give birth within the City of Philadelphia; or to sell, offer for sale, advertise for sale, exchange, or transfer for consideration any dog under seven months of age.”
The only exception to the regulation, which would remain in effect for three years, is for any person or entity holding a valid Pennsylvania Dog Law kennel license or nonprofit animal shelters or animal rescue organizations acting in the ordinary course of adoptions.
Charlie Hall, of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, said the moratorium is unfair. He said homes cannot be zoned for kennels.
“It should be noted that cities such as Los Angeles have passed similar bans and have not seen significant benefits in their shelters. And media reports have highlighted many ill-responsible breeders still operating in that city,” Hall said.
“Philadelphia deserves solutions that work in practice, not on paper,” he added.
A first offense for breeding or selling would bring a $1,000 fine, second goes up to $2,000. The ACCT would be in charge of enforcing the new law.